Swedish Massage

The first massage I’m going to talk about is Swedish massage. When people think of massage this is probably the best known style of massage that is thought of as a typical massage, as well as being the foundation on which many other massages are based.

This style of massage is a great starting point for anyone wanting to explore the treatment and it’s benefits. It can be used to target specific areas of concern such as solely on the back, or you may want to indulge in a full body massage.​

Go with the flow!

Swedish massage is carried out using a combination of massage movements. I always start and finish the massage using smooth flowing strokes called Effleurage, coming from the French word effleurer meaning to glide or to flow. Effleurage movements are not only used as a relaxing welcoming touch but also to increase circulation and blood flow as well as warming the muscles and underlying tissues preparing them for the deeper movements to follow. It is also an opportunity to detect areas of tension which will help guide me as to where the main focus​

Once the muscles and tissues are nicely warmed up I use a series of petrissage movements or kneading actions designed to stimulate local circulation and relieve tension. These movements include rolling, wringing and knuckling. Whilst most clients feel relaxed and rejuvenated after a massage these are powerful movements and when used over an area of tension some clients may feel a little sore or tender afterwards, this is quite normal and should disappear after 24 hours.

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​Tapotement is a technique used in Swedish massage which as the name suggests is a serious of rhythmic tapping, hacking, cupping, patting or plucking movements. Tapotement has many benefits depending on the strength of technique used. Tapping or raindrops are the most gentle and are used to stimulate blood flow and relax tension; whilst hacking, cupping and plucking are more powerful, stimulating and invigorating making them useful after exercise to help relax and soften tired muscles.​

All my full body and back, neck and shoulder massages are finished with a hot towel being placed on the back. Not only does this help to prolong the feeling of relaxation but is also helpful to remove excess oil from the skin. A perfect way to complete your treatment.​

What can I expect during the massage? ​Typically, a full body massage will last for about an hour, a back neck and shoulder massage approximately 30 minutes. Following a consultation, you will be left to undress and get yourself comfy on the treatment couch. Clients are often concerned and embarrassed about getting undressed for their massage, let’s face it we all have something we don’t like about our bodes, and I fully understand this. Be assured as a professional therapist I am not here to judge or criticise you. To get the maximum benefit from your massage I want you to be as relaxed as possible, so your comfort and modesty are observed; I will only ever expose the area that I am working on, using a technique known as draping where towels and blankets are used to maintain your modesty. ​

​Whilst all my massages will have the same elements I believe in tailoring every massage to the individual clients, I rarely do the same massage twice.

But don’t take my word for it why not find out for yourself and take advantage of my first May offer:

Swedish back, neck and shoulder massage for just £22! Simply quote blog when booking. Valid until Saturday 2nd June 2018